How Mediterranean, Italian and Spanish Revival mixed with British Colonial, Caribbean, and Bahamas Style interior design and architecture influenced South Florida from Ocean Reef Club (The Florida Keys) to Coral Gables, Fort Lauderdale and Boca Raton including the Palm Beaches
Mediterranean, Italian and Spanish Revival Architecture
Growing up in South Florida and calling Fort Lauderdale my home, I was inspired by many different architectural and interior design styles. However, as you may have read from my website, my first love was Vizcaya (the Deering Estate in Miami) ^ with its elaborate Mediterranean - Italian Revival influences and its Baroque elements.
Vizcaya Museum
Beautiful example of Old World Mediterranean / Spanish Revival Architecture and Interior Design located in Miami, Florida
Secondly was the Architect Addison Mizner (1872-1933) ^ Who was known as a "Society Architect." The Palm Beach mansions he designed for the wealthy and prominent created a new architectural style by combining the Mediterranean with Spanish Revival influences. His Mediterranean - Spanish style is still prevalent today in Boca Raton's interior design and architecture.
Addison Mizner
Primer Mediterranean Style home known as La Ronda, located on the Palm Beach coast
Embracing the Charm of British Colonial and West Indies Architecture in South Florida
In my exploration of architectural and interior design styles, I've found a particular passion for the allure of British Colonial and West Indies aesthetics that grace the landscapes of South Florida. The term "British Colonial" is a testament to the era of "Britain's Colonies," an era that vividly echoes the globalization trends of the mid-1800s when Britain's influence extended across continents, from Africa to India and throughout the Caribbean Islands.
The essence of British Colonial interior design emanates from the fusion of Britain's sophisticated traditional interiors with novel and exotic elements, notably natural materials. Imagining the lifestyle that inspired this interior design aesthetic takes us on a journey to far-off lands—the dense woodlands of Africa, the lush rubber plantations of India and South Asia, and the tropical allure of the West Indies and the Bahamas, adorned with vast sugar cane crops.
The travelers of this era brought back more than memories; their homes became adorned with framed maps, sturdy leather trunks, and collapsible writing desks. Lightweight and versatile furnishings such as folding director’s chairs and bamboo elements were a response to travel demands.
Amidst the sweltering heat and humidity, the preferred attire shifted to cool white linen and cotton, transcending fashion to dominate the interior design style of British Colonial-inspired spaces. This timeless elegance was manifested on sofas and chairs, including the abundant white window treatments and the iconic four-poster beds with billowing fabric.
The British Colonial interior design style transcends time, offering a glimpse into an era where the spirit of exploration and the allure of distant lands were woven into the very fabric of one's living space.
Daybed with British Colonial Linens
Day beds were made for long flowing sheers that add romance to any room
Surrounded by Plantation chairs and a Zebra rug
I believe this is a vignette for Ralph Lauren
Within the British Colonial style, animal skins sourced from Africa played a notable role, with the Zebra emerging as a favored choice for throw rugs and upholstery.
Light weight writing desk with directors style chair in the British Colonial Style
British Colonial / Bahamas classic Zebra Club Chair
The British Colonial aesthetic embraced an abundance of woods like bamboo, rattan, and dark mahogany, which adorned everything from the interior design furnishings to architectural elements and provided a striking counterpoint to the cool white walls as seen
British Colonial Style
The classic British Colonial interior design includes dark Mahogany floors contrasted by off white walls with rich dark louver doors
During this period of England's territorial and influential growth, scientific exploration, particularly in botanical studies, flourished. The detailed depictions of plant species evolved into exquisite artwork and floral fabrics. To this day, murals depicting distant exotic lands continue to be integral to British Colonial interior design.
Scenic wallpaper of exotic lands were found in wealthy British Colonial homes.
Botanical Artwork from the British Colonial / Bahamas Interior Design Style
British Colonial interior design boasts remarkable diversity, particularly in the array of accessories collected from global travels. From maps, globes, and magnifying glasses, to telescopes, the collection extends to coral, shells, and a varied selection of weathered books for leisurely afternoons on your daybed. Framed botanical specimens, potted palms, and exotic plants introduce warm green hues, creating a delightful contrast against the cool white walls.
Traditional British Colonial Style meets Tropical Bahamas - Caribbean Decor
Detailed wallpapers depicting distant lands transition into whimsical and romantic murals featuring tropical palm trees and Caribbean Islands.
This interior design style infuses vibrant, printed fabrics with oversized tropical artwork and an assortment of eclectic accessories, injects a playful spirit into a vacation home.
I love the regional golden coral stone texture on the walls set off the green shutters and foliage, all accented by natural rattan and wood furniture, focusing on the colorful pillows.
Ralph Lauren meets Musha Cay in the Bahamas
Ralph Lauren
I believe that this is Ralph Lauren’s home in the Bahamas
Captured above is Ralph Lauren's Bahama Isles residence, showcasing a timeless blend of British Colonial and Caribbean interior design. In contrast, the crisp and luminous Colonial Revival suites of Musha Cay Resort are depicted below.
Both residences boast off-white walls and dark Mahogany wood elements, including doors, moldings, floors, and furniture.
Beyond the Caribbean, British Colonial Territories extended to South Asia, incorporating exotic accessories into interior design. Musha Cay Resort showcases Asian statues reminiscent of Wayang shadow puppets and a rice paper light fixture. Notably, both spaces feature grand mirrors—one adorned with ornate wood carvings and the other displaying reverse-painted glass in Chinese Red.
Classic British Colonial, West Indies, and Bahamas design elements grace both rooms, including potted palms, a mahogany bench, brass hurricane lanterns, woven baskets, rattan furniture, an Asian rug, and blue and white Chinoiserie ginger jars.
Musha Cay Resort
Musha Cay and the Islands of Copperfield Bay, Bahama
The Architecture and Interior Design Style of Musha Cay Resort in the Bahamas Islands
While I typically steer clear of "Beige on White" aesthetics, the rooms at Musha Cay Resort exude unparalleled elegance and refinement.
Within monochromatic interior design, infusing striking architectural details or a mesmerizing view is crucial. These rooms boast both; the two-story vaulted ceiling adorned with exposed beams, arches, finials, and matching corbels adds a dramatic touch. The expansive two-story glass wall, reaching the peak of the vaulted ceiling, amplifies the enchanting oceanfront view. Notably, the classic Bahama's signature criss-cross railing detail graces every door and window.
Moreover, the living room showcases opulent Crema Cappuccino marble flooring, coral rock crown molding and columns, as well as faux stone wallpaper, creating a sophisticated backdrop for the beige tone-on-tone interior decor.
The coordinated sofas, with their contrasting welt, exude softness, complemented by the luxurious Cocoa and Cream side chairs. The Cream-colored armoire with glass doors introduces height and a touch of traditional interior design.
Notably, both photos display distinct furniture arrangements using the same furniture pieces. When optimizing views, I collaborate with clients to tailor seating options based on their comfort and visual priorities.
Personally, I favor the initial living room furniture layout, where sofas face each other and side chairs capture the view, maintaining a harmonious balance in the room making the overall arrangement a testament to thoughtful design.
I believe this Tropical Decor is the perfect marriage between Architecture, Interior Design, and Nature
Mod - Bahamas Decor
Redd Kaihoi Designs
I thought I loved color - Please check out these inspiring designers Miles Redd and David Kaihoi
The Mod-Bahamas interior design crafted by the talented team at Redd & Kaihoi left me truly inspired, prompting me to dedicate an entire blog to its captivating details. Within the blog, I'll delve into how each element of this space pays homage to the timeless heritage of classic British Colonial interior design.
The Architecture of the British Colonial Period
Then and Now
I adore the distinctive charm of British Colonial architecture, characterized by a grandeur that seems to declare, "We're here to stay."
Take a moment to appreciate the architectural similarities between these two homes, despite being constructed five centuries apart. Featured below is the Braganza House located in Chandor.
Braganza House
This is the 16th generational home of Menezes Braganza located in Chandor Goa, India
The "Braganza House" boasts a rich history, dating back over 500 years. Renovations were carried out 400 and 200 years ago, and remarkably, it withstood the periods of both British and Portuguese rule. Today, it stands as a private family residence, welcoming visitors for tours.
Colonial Plantation Style
Located on Mumbai Coast,India
Architect Bomi Irani envisioned the West Indies Plantation-style home, collaboratively designed with landscape architect Made Wijaya, known as "Truman Capote with a machete," and interior designer Sunil Jasani.
This British Colonial-West Indies architecture pioneered the concept of the "Open Floor Plan." Not only were the rooms interconnected, but they also seamlessly extended to the outdoors. The wrap-around stone arched colonnades and second-floor balconies served to cool the air before entering the house and from room to room.
This Grand Hall evokes cinematic memories of "Elephant Walk," a film set in a rubber plantation, and "The Letter," featuring a stunning British Colonial Plantation. My appreciation for movie set design is boundless—stay tuned for upcoming blogs delving into these captivating films. “Marcus Mars Interiors Blogs”
Elephant Walk (1954)
This is one of the hazards of a “Open Concept” floor plan on a rubber plantation -
The Letter (1940)
Betty Davis knows better than to sully her Zebra rug and shoot unwanted guest outside -
Colonial Style Architecture and how it influenced American Neighborhoods
Classic British Colonial Style Architecture
The British Colonial style of architecture is the most common and recognizable Colonial home. These homes have many variations and were built in new communities all over the world to suit their culture.
British Colonial style’s key features include:
A side-gabled roof
Two Floors
A centered front door
Symmetrical windows on either side of the door
Georgian Style Architecture
Georgian Style homes were very popular during the 18th century and are very similar to Federal houses, though they can be distinguished by:
A crown and pilasters framing the front door
Decorative quoins or bricks at the corners
Crown moldings and blocks used as moldings
Federal Colonial Style
Federal Colonial style homes became popular after the American Revolution and were a refined upgrade to the popular Georgian style. They have the same symmetry as Colonial houses, but their delicate ornamentation sets them apart.
Federal Colonial homes often feature:
A layout built around a central hall
An elliptical fanlight and two flanking windows at the door
Paladin oe Tripartite windows
French Colonial Architecture
French Colonial houses were very popular with the more tropical territories through out the Caribbean including French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barthelemy, and Saint Martin islands.
French Colonial style has these distinct features:
Dormer windows, including one centered above the door
External stairs
Iron stairs and balconies
Raised basements to allow for rising hurricane waters
Cape Cod Style Architecture
Cape Cod homes are similar to the American Colonial homes and they originated Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
Cape Cod homes are identified by their:
Shingled exteriors
Modest size and ornamentation compared to British Colonial homes.
Originally single-story homes
Large central fireplaces
Attic lofts and dormer windows are introduced during the 20th century revival
Please note:
While diligently attempting to credit the gifted architects and interior designers behind these creations, the challenge arises when researching internet images lacking clear attribution. If anyone possesses information regarding the origins of these images, I welcome notifications, enabling me to include the necessary accreditation.